Taking care of boys’ health isn’t as complicated as you may think.
Although scientific studies show that boys’ growth and development differs slightly from girls’, all children require similar basics for good health: nutritious food, physical activity, regular rest, and proper care and protection. Boys also have a few unique health needs, especially as they grow to maturity. These tips can help manage your boys’ health.
Make Sure They Eat Right
Nutrition fuels human development, so ensure that they are eating right. Young people need to eat a balanced diet so that they can grow properly.With the right nutrients and vitamins, kids’ bodies can develop optimally.
Of course, as kids get older, it’s more difficult to monitor their nutrition. Tween- and teenage boys often gravitate toward fast, convenient food. You’re no longer in control of their meals, so it’s tough to ensure a healthy diet. Continue to model healthy eating (and a healthy relationship with food). Stock your fridge and pantry with nutritious, easy-to-grab goods, as well as some of your son’s favorites.
Boys may need slightly more protein than girls in adolescence, as males typically have more muscle mass than females. Most teens, however — even active teenage athletes — do not need protein supplements. Most teenagers can easily get all the protein they need from their meals.
Tackle Any Skin Issues
As boys enter puberty, they may experience some skin changes. Acne is common; so are skin itches at night. Some people develop eczema as they grow; others appear to “grow out” of it.
If your son starts to show signs of skin problems, speak to a specialist and get their professional advice before starting treatment. You want to ensure that you’re doing the right thing and not making the problem worse.
Boys tend to have more pores than girls because they have more active sebaceous (oil) glands, so they may be more prone to oily skin and acne.
Speak To A Healthcare Provider Regularly
As your child is growing, it’s important that you connect with a healthcare provider (usually, a doctor or nurse practitioner) on a regular basis. They will be able to give you advice on the health of your son and suggest things you can do to aid their development. Your healthcare provider will also teach you about normal development and alert you to signs and symptoms that may suggest a health or developmental problem.
Most children and young adults should be seen by a doctor every six month. At this appointment, the doctor will complete a routine checkup and address any health concerns.
Remaining Hydrated Is Important
Humans need water to be healthy because the body is made up of a large percentage of water. Active boys need to replenish the water they lose through sweat and other natural processes and will likely need extra fluids in hot weather and when exercising.
Sleep Is Essential
While kids may not appreciate how important sleep is, you should help them get the rest that they need to develop optimally. Young kids (and teens!) need around ten hours per night to thrive, and most will need assistance to get enough shut-eye. A consistent bedtime routine can help younger kinds settle for sleep. Tweens and teens also benefit from an evening wind-down routine, and should (ideally) set aside their digital devices (phones, tablets, laptops, and video games) at least an hour before bed. Tech should be out of their room at bedtime.
Changes Can Be Tough
When they go through puberty, many boys find it difficult to handle the changes that are going on in their body, and often this is expressed in terms of anger or frustrated outbursts. Thought this behavior can be frustrating for you, it’s important that you try to remain as calm as you can — while still setting and enforcing appropriate boundaries.
A boy’s adolescence can be a tough time for everyone in the household. Remember to practice self-care!
As your son grows, he’ll gradually take on more responsibility for his health and well-being. Preparing boys to independently manage their health and medical care is another part of taking care of boys’ health.
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